EVALUATING THE IMPACT OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS ON PROSTHODONTICS TREATMENT IN NIGERIA. A CASE STUDY OF DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL,OGHARA
ATTENTION:
BEFORE YOU READ THE ABSTRACT OR CHAPTER ONE OF THE PROJECT TOPICS BELOW, PLEASE READ THE INFORMATION BELOW.THANK YOU!
INFORMATION:
YOU CAN GET THE COMPLETE PROJECT OF THE TOPIC BELOW. THE FULL PROJECT COST N5,000 ONLY. THE FULL INFORMATION ON HOW TO PAY AND GET THE COMPLETE PROJECT IS AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE. OR
YOU CAN CALL: 08068231953, 08137701720,
WHATSAPP/TELEGRAM US ON: 08137701720
EVALUATING THE IMPACT OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS ON PROSTHODONTICS TREATMENT IN NIGERIA. A CASE STUDY OF DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL,OGHARA
Abstract
Socio-economic factors play a critical role in determining access to and utilization of prosthodontic treatment, particularly in developing countries such as Nigeria. This study evaluates the impact of socio-economic determinants—including income level, educational status, occupation, and social class—on the utilization and outcomes of prosthodontic treatment at Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed, involving 250 patients who had undergone or were undergoing prosthodontic treatment. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and clinical records and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and correlation analysis at a 5% significance level. The findings revealed that higher income levels, advanced educational attainment, and formal employment were significantly associated with increased access to and completion of prosthodontic treatment (p < 0.05). Conversely, low-income earners and individuals with limited education were less likely to seek or complete treatment, citing cost and lack of awareness as primary barriers. The study concludes that socio-economic factors substantially influence prosthodontic treatment uptake and outcomes in Delta State. It recommends the implementation of subsidized dental care programs, public awareness campaigns, and targeted policies to improve equitable access to prosthodontic services. This research provides critical insights for policymakers, dental practitioners, and health administrators aiming to enhance oral health service delivery in Nigeria.
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Prosthodontics, a specialized branch of dentistry, focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients with missing or deficient teeth and oral structures (Shigli et al., 2012). Prosthodontic treatment improves oral function, esthetics, and overall quality of life. However, access to such treatments is often influenced by socio-economic factors, including income level, educational status, employment, and health insurance coverage (Adeyemo et al., 2015).
In Nigeria, socio-economic disparities have been identified as key determinants in the uptake and utilization of dental services, particularly prosthodontics (Folayan et al., 2014). High costs, lack of awareness, and limited availability of specialized dental services often limit patients’ ability to seek and complete prosthodontic treatments. Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, as a tertiary healthcare facility, provides specialized prosthodontic services, yet anecdotal evidence suggests that socio-economic barriers may impede patient access and treatment outcomes.
Understanding how socio-economic factors affect prosthodontic treatment is essential for improving service delivery, patient satisfaction, and oral health equity. This study therefore seeks to evaluate the relationship between socio-economic status and prosthodontic treatment uptake and outcomes in Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite advancements in prosthodontic care, many patients in Nigeria fail to access or complete treatment due to socio-economic constraints. Folayan et al. (2014) noted that low income and educational levels are strongly associated with reduced utilization of specialized dental services. High treatment costs, limited insurance coverage, and poor health literacy further exacerbate disparities in prosthodontic care.
In Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, there is limited empirical research on the impact of socio-economic factors on prosthodontic treatment. Without such data, policymakers and hospital administrators may struggle to implement interventions that improve accessibility, affordability, and quality of care. This study addresses this gap by evaluating the influence of socio-economic factors on prosthodontic treatment in the hospital.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1.3.1 General Objective
To evaluate the impact of socio-economic factors on prosthodontic treatment in Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara.
1.3.2 Specific Objectives
To assess the influence of income level on patients’ ability to access prosthodontic treatment.
To examine the effect of educational status on patients’ awareness and acceptance of prosthodontic treatment.
To determine the impact of employment status on the uptake of prosthodontic services.
To evaluate the role of health insurance in facilitating access to prosthodontic care.
To explore patients’ perceptions of socio-economic barriers to prosthodontic treatment.
1.4 Research Questions
How does income level affect access to prosthodontic treatment?
What is the relationship between educational status and awareness of prosthodontic services?
How does employment status influence the uptake of prosthodontic treatment?
To what extent does health insurance coverage facilitate access to prosthodontic care?
What socio-economic barriers do patients perceive in accessing prosthodontic treatment?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
There is no significant relationship between income level and access to prosthodontic treatment.
Educational status does not significantly affect awareness and acceptance of prosthodontic treatment.
Employment status has no significant influence on the uptake of prosthodontic services.
Health insurance coverage does not significantly facilitate access to prosthodontic care.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant for several reasons:
Policy Formulation: The findings will provide evidence-based insights for hospital administrators and policymakers to improve access to prosthodontic services.
Patient Awareness: Highlighting socio-economic barriers can inform educational campaigns to increase awareness of prosthodontic treatment.
Healthcare Planning: Understanding the influence of income, education, employment, and insurance can guide resource allocation and subsidization of treatments for vulnerable populations.
Academic Contribution: The study adds to existing literature on oral health disparities and socio-economic determinants of specialized dental care in Nigeria.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study focuses on patients receiving or seeking prosthodontic treatment at Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara. It examines socio-economic factors such as income, educational status, employment, and health insurance coverage, and their impact on treatment access, uptake, and outcomes. The study is limited to patients within Delta State, and findings may not be generalizable to all Nigerian states.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
Limited sample size due to the specific population of prosthodontic patients.
Potential respondent bias in self-reporting income or treatment experiences.
Constraints in accessing complete patient records due to privacy and ethical considerations.
1.9 Operational Definition of Terms
Socio-Economic Factors: Variables such as income, education, and occupation that influence an individual’s social and economic status (Adeyemo et al., 2015).
Prosthodontics Treatment: Dental procedures involving the replacement of missing teeth and associated structures to restore function and aesthetics (Shigli et al., 2012).
Health Insurance: Coverage that partially or fully pays for medical and dental treatment costs.
Treatment Uptake: The proportion of patients who access and complete prescribed prosthodontic treatment.
HOW TO RECEIVE PROJECT MATERIAL (S)
After paying the appropriate amount (#5,000) into our bank Account below, send the following information to any of the numbers below
08068231953, 08137701720,
(1) Your project topics
(2) Email Address
(3) Payment Name
OR you drop them on our WhatsApp/Telegram, 08137701720
We will send your material(s) after we receive bank alert
BANK ACCOUNTS
Account Name: AMUTAH DANIEL CHUKWUDI
Account Number: 0046579864
Bank: GTBank.
OR
Account Name: AMUTAH DANIEL CHUKWUDI
Account Number: 3139283609
Bank: FIRST BANK
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL:
08068231953, 08137701720, 08154275408
http://graduateprojects.com.ng